People served by CMHA Sault Ste. Marie-Algoma can now use the region’s first source of centralized access for mental health and addiction services. Launched recently, the Central Access and Information Service is a partnership between the branch, North Shore Community Support Services in Elliot Lake and other mental health and addiction service providers in Algoma.

Since the launch, 133 area residents have called Central Access seeking information relating to mental health and addiction services.

The purpose of the Central Access and Information Service is to:

Help reduce confusion for individuals and providers on what services are available and where

Assist with linking individuals to the right level of service that is available

Provide a consistent response related to mental health and addiction services that are available

Significantly expand the regular office hours of service for assisting individuals seeking information and services

“Since the launch, 133 area residents have called Central Access seeking information relating to mental health and addiction services, 25 per cent of them from individuals who are new to the system,” stated Annette Katajamaki, executive director of CMHA Sault Ste. Marie-Algoma.

The Central Access and Information Service is accessible by telephone or walk-in, where people are provided information on what mental health and addictions services are available across the district as well as connecting them to the appropriate level of service.